Reform Party MP Rupert Lowe Claims Hidden Statistics on Foreign Nationals Receiving Universal Credit
In a bold assertion on social media, Rupert Lowe the former Southampton FC chairman and current Reform Party MP, has stirred controversy by claiming to have uncovered hidden statistics regarding the nationality of individuals claiming benefits in the UK. His allegations suggest a significant number of foreign nationals are accessing Universal Credit, a revelation he describes as a scandal demanding public transparency.
According to Lowe, the Universal Credit Habitual Residence Test is employed to determine the eligibility of foreign nationals and returning British citizens for benefits. He claims that a whistleblower from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has informed him that British citizens account for roughly 10% of the successful tests.
Lowe presented internal DWP data, revealing that since April 2019, a staggering 3,379,500 residence tests have been successfully completed. The breakdown of these numbers over the years is as follows:
- April 2019 to March 2020: 342,900
- April 2020 to March 2021: 826,200
- April 2021 to March 2022: 941,400
- April 2022 to March 2023: 499,500
- April 2023 to March 2024: 479,700
- April 2024 to September 2024: 289,800
Based on these figures, Lowe asserts that over 50,000 foreign nationals are passing the tests monthly to gain access to Universal Credit. He calls upon the DWP to release the full nationality breakdown of benefit claimants to either confirm or refute his findings.
“This is a scandal,” Lowe declared, emphasizing the British public’s right to know the complete truth about the demographics of those receiving government aid.
The post has resonated with the public, drawing comments that highlight widespread frustration. Michael Duane expressed his discontent, writing, “The British public are shafted at every possible angle. That’s why many are leaving in droves. What has become of this once great country is nothing short of disgraceful, shambolic, and a knife in the back to those who fought to defend our ways of life and culture. Shame on the weak leadership of this country.”
Similarly, Suzanne Brogan commented, “OMG, we cannot sustain this,” echoing concerns about the sustainability of current welfare policies concerning mass immigration and benefits.
The DWP has yet to respond to Lowe’s claims. Meanwhile, the debate over illegal immigration and the Labour Governments lenient stance continues to garner more backing. Critics argue that the government must address these concerns to maintain public trust and ensure equitable distribution of welfare resources.
